Stay healthy around Christmas: 12 days of Health

Christmas is a magical time of year filled with joy, laughter, and celebrations. Yet, let’s be honest – it also comes with its fair share of challenges when it comes to staying healthy. With delicious meals, endless parties, social gatherings, and the stress of hosting or traveling, it’s easy to let your wellness goals take a backseat.

The good news? You can enjoy the holidays without sacrificing your health. It’s all about finding balance and making thoughtful choices that work for you.

To help you navigate the season, I’ve created "12 days of Health" – a refreshing twist on the classic "12 days of Christmas." These tips will keep you feeling your best while fully enjoying the festive cheer.

1. Exercise every other day – don’t let two days go without movement

Christmas often means a disrupted routine, but staying active should remain a priority. While it’s tempting to take a full break from exercise, moving your body every other day can do wonders for your energy levels, mood, and digestion.

Not sure where to start? Incorporate movement into festive activities: go for a walk with family, challenge your kids to a game of backyard cricket, or try a quick bodyweight circuit at home. For those in the northern hemisphere, activities like sledding, ice skating, or winter hiking are fantastic ways to stay active and enjoy the chilly days.

The goal isn’t perfection but consistency. And remember, even 15 minutes of movement is better than none.

2. Get sunshine – but practice safe sun

During the holidays, many of us head outdoors, whether it’s for beach days, picnics, or family barbecues. Sunshine is a great way to boost vitamin D levels, which are essential for bone health, mood, and immunity. However, too much sun exposure can lead to skin damage.

To strike the balance, aim for short bursts of sunshine earlier in the day. Always wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and protective clothing during peak UV hours. Safe sun exposure ensures you reap the benefits without the risks.

3. Stay hydrated – alcohol doesn’t count!

With all the festive cheer (and the champagne flowing), it’s easy to overlook your water intake. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and poor concentration – all of which we want to avoid during the holidays.

Keep a water bottle handy and aim to drink 2+ litres of water a day. Also, consider including electrolytes if you’re exercising for long periods of time.

4. Catch up on sleep

The holidays offer a golden opportunity to recharge, especially if you have time off work or fewer early-morning commitments. Use this time to catch up on much-needed sleep. Sleep is essential for regulating hormones, supporting immune function, and improving decision-making (including food choices!).

Set a bedtime routine even during the festive season. Dimming the lights, avoiding screens before bed, and practicing relaxation techniques can help you wind down for restorative sleep.

5. Set boundaries – don’t say yes to everything

Between office parties, family gatherings, and catch-ups with friends, the festive season can quickly become overwhelming. While it’s lovely to see everyone, overcommitting can leave you feeling drained.

This year, give yourself permission to say no to invitations that don’t align with your priorities or energy levels. Remember, it’s okay to protect your time and well-being. Setting boundaries is a form of self-care and allows you to fully enjoy the events you choose to attend.

6. Alternate between alcohol and water

Alcohol is a staple at many holiday celebrations, but it’s important to approach it mindfully. In addition to causing dehydration, alcohol can impair judgment, which may result in poor food choices or overindulgence.

To enjoy your drinks without overdoing it, alternate each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water. This simple trick slows down your intake, keeps you hydrated, and can help prevent the dreaded hangover. Plus, your liver will thank you!

7. Don’t stress over a big blow-up

Family gatherings are wonderful but can also be a source of stress. Kitchen mishaps or forgotten gifts – can feel overwhelming in the moment. However, letting stress take over only detracts from the joy of the season.

If tensions arise, take a deep breath, step away if needed, and focus on solutions rather than the problem. Remember, one tough moment doesn’t define the entire holiday. In the end, it’s the time spent with others that matters most.

8. At parties, seek the healthiest thing on the menu

Navigating holiday buffets and menus can be tricky, but it’s not impossible to make healthier choices. One of my go-to strategies is to challenge myself to pick the healthiest option available. For example, I often prioritize a protein-rich entrée over carb-heavy options.

If you’re faced with finger food, aim for items like grilled skewers or fresh salads.

9. Eat before you go – especially protein

Heading to a party hungry is a recipe for overindulgence, especially when the options are typically carb-laden and low in protein. To set yourself up for success, eat a balanced meal or snack before you leave.

Protein-rich foods like eggs, Greek yogurt, or a handful of nuts can help keep hunger at bay and stabilize your blood sugar. Arriving with a satisfied stomach allows you to make more mindful choices.

10. Pick one indulgence as a challenge

Holiday food is all about indulgence, but it’s easy to go overboard. Instead of trying everything on offer, challenge yourself to pick one indulgence that truly excites you. It might be a unique dessert, a nostalgic family recipe, or a favourite savoury snack.

Enjoy your choice mindfully, savouring every bite. This approach helps you stay present, enjoy the experience, and avoid the post-party regret of overindulgence.

11. You don’t have to drink just because you’re at a social function

Social pressure to drink can be a challenge during the holidays, but remember – it’s your choice. Research shows that alcohol impairs decision-making, often leading to less mindful food choices. By skipping the drink or opting for a mocktail, you can stay clear-headed and focused on what really matters – the company and the experience.

12. Don’t wind yourself up

Last but not least, don’t let the holiday chaos wind you up. Whether it’s a packed schedule, a long to-do list, or unexpected hiccups, stress is often inevitable. However, how you respond to it makes all the difference.

Take breaks when needed, delegate tasks, and remind yourself that perfection isn’t the goal. Be present, let go of the little things, and focus on creating joyful memories.

The holidays are a time to celebrate, connect, and enjoy life – but they don’t have to come at the expense of your health. By incorporating these 12 days of Health, you can find a balance between indulging in the festive spirit and maintaining your wellness goals.

This Christmas, give yourself the gift of self-care. Whether it’s staying hydrated, setting boundaries, or moving your body, every small step adds up to a healthier, happier you.

From my family to yours, I wish you a joyful, peaceful, and healthy Christmas season. May it be filled with love, laughter, and memories to cherish.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! 🎄